Spaulding Centers for Comprehensive Spasticity Management

The Spasticity Management Program provides comprehensive care for people with spasticity and various dystonias. Common in patients with neurological disorders, spasticity – an abnormal increase in muscle tone or stiffness – causes pain and spasms that can interfere with arm or hand function, walking, speaking, and performing activities of daily living. A multi-disciplinary rehabilitation team of physicians, therapists and an orthotist experienced in the newest technologies and treatments will work with you to relieve spasticity-related symptoms such as pain, impaired mobility, disrupted sleep and more.

Approach to Care

Because the effects of spasticity can vary from person to person, a comprehensive evaluation and individualized treatment by a physician well-trained in spasticity management is very important. Spaulding’s physicians, specialists in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R), are experts in the use of Botulinum Toxin (Botox®) to relax muscles and reduce excessive muscle contractions. Other services may include medication management, baclofen pump management and nerve blocks in conjunction with physical, occupational and speech therapies. Ultimately, our goal is to improve each patient’s spasticity by increasing functionality and his/her independence, thereby maximizing overall quality of life.

Leadership and Expertise

Our team is led by an experienced physiatrist certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. The physician works closely with physical, occupational and speech therapists who have been trained in treating spasticity. These clinicians collaborate with orthotists trained in the newest braces and other adaptive devices as well as surgeons for intervention when indicated.